Tuesday, July 3, 2012 - Submitted by CRC Communications
The Ontario Blues senior men's rugby program will field a development XV on Wednesday, July 4, against the Ontario under-19 team in what will be a very constructive exercise for both.
The U19s, who fly to Edmonton in less than two weeks to attempt to defend their 2011 title, will get a challenging match ahead of that tournament. Meanwhile the senior men's side gets a chance to assess many of the players trying to break into the side for 2012.
Only four players who made the successful tour to South America in May will suit up (Scott Dunham, Liam Underwood, Jordan Wilson Ross and Rob Brouwer). The bulk of the roster is comprised of players pushing for spots on this year's team, including players from as far west as London and as far east as Ottawa.
“This will be a good opportunity for both” said Blues head coach Chris Silverthorn. “For us, we get to see a bunch of guys who have been training with us but haven’t had a chance to play yet. The U19 guys will get a decent run-out before their competition”
The game will be played at Paul Gilbert Field in Mississauga (1275 Mississauga Valley Blvd), with kickoff time set for 7:30pm. CRC referee Andrew Hosie, just back from the Junior World Trophy, will be the man in the middle.